Europe's Greek tragedy

Special Report

Last modification: 08/05/10

In October 2009, Greece’s public debt reached a terrifying 12.7 percent of GDP, kicking off a crisis in European markets that threatened the currency block's economic stability. After several months of hesitation, eurozone nations agreed in May to an aid package for Greece worth some €110 billion - but the austerity measures called for by the plan are brutal. For the latest reports, interviews and analysis on the Greek financial tragedy, log on to FRANCE24.com.

GREEKS TAKE TO STREETS IN PROTEST

EUROPEAN UNION

Eurozone leaders formally approve Greek aid package

Eurozone leaders have formally given their backing to a massive aid package for Greece, hoping that their show of political resolve will prevent Athens' debt crisis from spreading to other European countries.

GREECE

Three killed as anti-austerity strike turns violent

Three people were killed Wednesday when an Athens bank caught fire after youths pelted buildings with petrol bombs to protest against government budget-slashing plans. The planned cuts are part of an effort to stem Greece's spiraling debt crisis.

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GREECE

President slams protests, warns nation is on 'brink of abyss'

Greek President Carolos Papoulias has condemned the violent demonstrations which left three people dead on Wednesday, and warned that the crisis-hit country is on “the edge of the abyss”.

GREECE

Police and demonstrators clash at Athens May Day march

A trade union march marking May Day in Athens turned violent Saturday after demonstrators clashed with police. Dozens of youths stormed through a line of anti-riot forces protecting the finance ministry, prompting police to deploy tear gas.

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GREECE

Police fire tear gas at protesters outside finance ministry

Greek police have fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of protesters demonstrating against harsh austerity measures outside the finance ministry building in Athens.

GREECE

Thousands strike hoping to influence talks with EU and IMF

Thousands of civil servants took to the streets Thursday as part of a general strike to pressure the Greek government not to agree to further budget cuts in discussions with the EU and IMF over a planned bailout.

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Fears of Greek contagion